ISRO Chairman Unveils Next-Gen Thermal Research Centre at IIT Madras
India’s journey towards becoming a leader in space research took a significant leap as V Narayanan, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), proudly inaugurated the ‘Shri S. Ramakrishnan Centre of Excellence in Fluid and Thermal Science Research’ at IIT Madras on March 17, 2025. This momentous event marks a new era in the collaboration between ISRO and one of India’s premier educational institutions.
A Game-Changer for India’s Space Innovations
Positioned strategically within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras, this advanced research centre is set to transform spacecraft and launch vehicle thermal management systems. The initiative aligns with India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ goals, promoting self-reliance in high-tech space technologies, while also serving as a magnet for international expertise and funding in thermal science.
V Narayanan emphasized that this establishment is not just a monumental achievement but is vital for India’s forthcoming lunar, Mars, and deep-space explorations. According to Times of India, the advanced thermal control mechanisms researched here will critically impact the longevity and safety of satellites and spacecraft.
Honoring Legends and Building the Future
The centre’s namesake, Shri S. Ramakrishnan, a distinguished IIT Madras alumnus and an esteemed aerospace engineer significantly contributed to India’s space achievements, working on prominent projects including PSLV and GSLV MK3. The event also saw the inauguration of the ‘Arcot Ramachandran Seminar Hall’, a tribute to Prof. Arcot Ramachandran’s pioneering contributions to heat transfer research.
Collaboration for Space Success
During the inauguration, V. Narayanan highlighted the Cryogenic Engine technology breakthroughs India achieved, setting global records in both development speed and efficiency. “India now stands shoulder to shoulder with only six other countries globally with this technology,” he noted. A testament to India’s resilience and innovation, this achievement fuels ISRO’s ambition and puts India’s space capabilities on the global map.
Driving Innovation & Excellence
The collaboration between ISRO scientists and IIT Madras researchers aims to surpass current thermal science frontiers, focusing on next-generation spacecraft cooling and heat pipe technologies. As the saying goes, “Space is a frontier where innovation knows no bounds,” and this centre aspires to contribute groundbreaking solutions to thermal challenges faced in space missions.
Paving the Path Forward
In alignment with India’s aspiration for technological self-sufficiency, the centre will drive medium- to long-term objectives such as the prototyping of innovative cooling systems, advanced thermal management, and more integrated ISRO collaborations. Long-term goals include fortifying spacecraft designs and enabling India’s ambitions for missions like Gaganyaan.
In a speech full of gratitude and vision, V Narayanan called upon the talents of IIT Madras, saying, “Under Prof V Kamakoti’s guidance, the Institute will undoubtedly reach new heights, collaborating closely with ISRO.”
Indeed, with initiatives like these, India is not merely dreaming of the stars; it’s reaching them, stitching a legacy of innovation, excellence, and global leadership in space research.